Junior Zevallos, an 18-year-old high-school athlete from Missouri, tragically died after collapsing at the finish line of a half-marathon due to his body temperature reaching a fatal level and his heart stopping. He was rushed to the hospital after the 13-mile Frog Hill Half Marathon but unfortunately could not be saved. His family described him as a remarkable friend, student, brother, and son who was driven by a competitive spirit and a relentless determination to master any challenge he faced. Junior participated in track, football, and wrestling.
According to his family, Junior was dedicated to self-improvement and constantly striving to become the best version of himself. He was an avid student of the Bible, knowledgeable about investing, and liked reading self-improvement books. The teenager had plans to graduate early in December and join the Marine Corps, following in his father’s footsteps. When not at school, with his girlfriend Olivia, or working at the 7Brew drive-thru, Junior spent his free time with his friends, family, and hobbies, such as working on his car, playing poker, and enjoying game nights.
Junior was also known for his lack of rest as he was always pushing himself to excel in everything he did. Doctors informed the family that his body temperature had reached a fatal level, which caused his heart to stop. Lebanon High School, where he was a senior, expressed their mourning over the loss of their student. The district extended their deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. The family highlighted in a fundraiser the fact that rest was a foreign concept to Junior, indicating his drive and relentless pursuit of his goals.
In a note shared by a relative in the fundraiser, Junior’s ultimate goal was to complete the marathon in under two hours, a goal he almost achieved by finishing at an hour and fifty-eight minutes. His family mentioned how he enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, engaging in activities such as gaming nights with family and playing poker with friends. Junior’s father also shared his love for hiking with his girlfriend and serving coffee at the 7Brew drive-thru. The community was deeply saddened by the loss of such a promising young athlete and student, remembering him as a dedicated individual who was always looking to better himself and take on new challenges.
